Audiovisual:

Educational exemptions are described within the law. The focus is upon adaption, unauthorized copies and lost profits
from unauthorized performances. Performance can be construed as simple display.

Public performance needs one of these things:
  • Permission from copyright owner
  • License from rights broker
  • Payment of royalties


Showing TV programs live if you’re a subscriber is allowed.

Be aware that changing a video to VHS to DVD format is adaptation and is prohibited!

Public performance: Any ‘performance’ is public. Playing an MP3 player on speakers could be considered a public performance. In certain circumstances a license is required.


Display means to show a copy. You can, however, perform or display works in face-to-face teaching in a classroom.

Distribution of video:

If a recording is owned by the library, please submit a lesson plan showing the link between the video and curriculum.

If the recording was rented, make sure to observe Fair Use requirements .

For off-air recordings submit verification of compliance with the guidelines to the library.

Except in a very few circumstances, conversions of any kind are prohibited.


Non-instructional video viewing is NOT permitted for purposes such as:

  • Recess
  • Cultural value
  • Entertainment
  • Peri-instructional
  • Extracurricular
  • Copies


Simpson, Carol. Copyright For Schools, A Practical Guide.